In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to cast a traditional birth chart using astro-seek.com, one of the most reliable tools available. We’ll demonstrate this process using the birth details of Charles Dickens, calculated with the whole sign house system and traditional planets.
Additionally, astro.com is another excellent free option for casting traditional birth charts if you’re exploring alternative platforms. We have a guide here.
Charles Dickens’ Birth Details
From Astrodatabank, Charles Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, at 7:50 PM in Portsmouth, England, with a Rodden accuracy rating of A (data verified as accurate).
Step-by-Step Guide to Cast Your Birth Chart on astro-seek.com
Start by creating an account on astro-seek.com if you don’t already have one. Use the link below to register: Create Your Account
Note: if you already have an astro-seek.com account, you should just log in.
The following is a simple guide to cast a traditional astrology chart.
- Click on My Private AstroDatabase

- In My Private AstroDatabase screen, click on Add new person tab

- Enter the birth data and click Add person to save the information

- Now you should see Charles Dickens birth data saved in the astro database. Click on Charles Dickens

- Select chart type Traditional chart. In extended settings select Fortune, Lunar Nodes, House system Whole Sign and click on Save settings

Now the extended settings are saved. Select person Charles Dickens and chart type as Traditional chart and click Calculate chart.

Charles Dickens’ Traditional Birth Chart
Here is the traditional birth chart of Charles Dickens using the steps outlined above:

Why Use the Whole Sign House System?
The whole sign house system is foundational to traditional astrology. In this system:
- Each zodiac sign represents one house.
- The Ascendant (rising sign) begins the first house, and subsequent signs follow in order.
- Unlike quadrant systems, the Midheaven (MC) may not always fall in the 10th house—it can shift based on geographical latitude.
This simplicity allows astrologers to focus on the planets, their dignities, and relationships within the chart.
Learn More About the Traditional Birth Chart
Understanding a birth chart is just the beginning. To delve deeper into its significance, including the sect of the chart and how it reflects life events, check out Episode 4 of our traditional astrology series.
Resources for Further Exploration
Happy chart casting, and may your journey into traditional astrology be as illuminating as the stars themselves!